Project ASTRID is an ambitious student-led aerospace project developed by Space Team Aachen e.V., the largest non-profit student space initiative in Aachen, Germany. The project’s goal is to design, build, test, and launch a hybrid rocket capable of reaching an altitude of approximately 3,000 meters at the European Rocketry Challenge (EuRoC) 2026.
ASTRID builds upon the extensive experience gained through seven successful engineering projects, including additively manufactured liquid rocket engines, custom-built propulsion test stands, and advanced avionics systems. Bringing together students from various engineering disciplines, the project provides valuable hands-on experience in systems engineering, propulsion, flight control, manufacturing, and testing.
To meet the demanding performance and reliability requirements of a competitive sounding rocket, the team is developing sophisticated avionics and actuation systems based on CAN and DroneCAN communication architectures. These systems are responsible for critical functions such as flight control, telemetry, and valve actuation throughout the mission.
To support the development of these subsystems, HiTEC Europe is providing its MDB961WP-CAN-DroneCAN-28V Servo Motors. Featuring a waterproof design, a high-performance brushless drive system, precise magnetic encoder feedback, and full CAN/DroneCAN compatibility, the MDB961WP actuator is ideally suited for aerospace applications such as valve actuation and flight control mechanisms. These capabilities make it a valuable component in the development of robust and reliable avionics systems for the ASTRID rocket.
Through this sponsorship, HiTEC Europe contributes directly to the successful realization of Project ASTRID while supporting the next generation of engineers and innovators in the aerospace sector. The partnership provides an opportunity to demonstrate advanced actuator technology in a demanding high-performance environment while fostering education, research, and technological innovation.
By participating in EuRoC 2026, Space Team Aachen aims not only to showcase its technical capabilities but also to inspire future aerospace engineers and contribute to the growing European student space community.
HiTEC Europe is proud to support Space Team Aachen on its journey to EuRoC 2026 and looks forward to contributing to the success of Project ASTRID.
